The Pacific Northwest has many spectacular native, hybrid native, and other plants adapted to local climate and soil conditions. Once established, native and adapted plants are very low maintenance, require little to no pesticides or fertilizers, and survive well on minimal water. Read below to learn more about how to choose the right plants for your yard’s micro climates and soil conditions.

Match Plants with Appropriate Growing Conditions

The Willamette Valley, including the Portland metro area, is rated a zone 6. Plants rated for zone 6 are hardy enough to survive winter temperatures as low as 1 to −10 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants rated a zone 8 or lower can also be planted in our area. A zone 8 rating means that plants are hardy enough to survive low temperatures, ranging from 29 to 13 degrees. In colder weather, these plants will need to be covered with mulch to protect the roots.

Not sure what types of plants you want in your garden? Use our 7 Basic Steps for Creating Water Efficient Landscapes brochure and the Water-Efficient Plant Guide to start exploring the possibilities.

Group Plants With Similar Water Needs

Different plants need different amounts of water, sun and shade to survive. Some microclimates of your yard are probably hotter and drier, or wetter and cooler, than others. 

Create Watering Zones

In addition to your yard’s microclimates, look at creating watering zones within your landscape. Inside each zone, all of the plants should have the same general watering needs, allowing you to give each plant the water it requires — not too much or too little. Watering zones help you avoid wasting water while helping to reduce the time and effort needed to maintain your garden.

Water to Your Plant’s Needs

On average, we recommend watering your lawn about an inch a week – a bit more during long, hot, dry spells and a bit less during the cooler spring and fall.  Trees, shrubs and perennials typically don’t need water as frequently, however they may require more volume at each cycle, so it is best to check with your local garden center or landscape professional on your plant’s specific watering needs.

Waterwise Plant Resources

• Water Efficient Plants for the Willamette Valley: Looking for that perfect water efficient plant? Be sure to check out our beautiful four-color plant guide.
• Waterwise Plant Slideshow: View our waterwise plant slide show and get ideas for how you can use waterwise plants to add color, drama, and texture to your garden. 
• Plantlust.com: Use this site to learn more about whether the plants you would like to include in your garden are waterwise and then see which garden centers have the plants you want in stock.